Kankakee Times

In a Feb. 2 Facebook post, Sen. Thomas Bennett (R-Watseka) wrote about his visit to the 112th annual meeting of the Illinois Association of Agricultural Fairs in Springfield.

“Glad to speak at the 112th annual meeting of the Illinois Association of Agricultural Fairs in Springfield,” he wrote on Facebook. “Fairs are in almost every county and help support their local economy. They allow the youth to learn more about ag, help develop self confidence, work ethic, and other important life skills. Congrats to the Pence family from Iroquois County for their award! Well deserved! Glad to see several folks from Ford and Iroquois Counties. Great day for all of the Illinois county fairs. They do so very much for our families, communities, counties and state!”

The Illinois Association of Agricultural Fairs met in Springfield Jan. 20-22. Events during the convention included the selection and coronation of Miss Illinois County Fair Queen, a variety of featured speakers, a trade show and meeting of past presidents.

It was during this event that Paige Van Dyke, Miss Clay County, was crowned Miss Illinois County Fair Queen. Van Dyke takes the reigns from 2022 Miss Illinois County Fair Queen Addisyn Calloni, who was the 2022 Miss Perry County Fair. 

Bennett was appointed to represent the 53rd Senate District after the resignation of Sen. Jason Barickman. Between 2015 and 2023, Bennett was a state representative in the 106th House District.